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Latest Old Vine Project News

Sep 28

Heritage Selections

The Old Vine Project (OVP) has the goal to advocate for old vineyards. We are also attempting to develop a culture for precision viticulture and planting for the future so that all vineyards can enjoy the benefits of an old age. Preserving our oldest viticultural material is important to build a strong foundation for the future, especially in the light of climate change.

Sep 28

Old Vines, Living Heritage: Preserving South Africa’s Vineyard Legacy

Old vines are a phenomenon that has captured the attention of the global wine world. Wines made from old vines are a tribute to the grower’s commitment to the land. They exist because of the people who have farmed and tended these vineyards over many years. An old vine is defined as a vineyard of 35 years or older, a definition accepted by the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV).

Jun 1

Paradox of old vineyards: Part five of five of a serialized report on old vines in South Africa

By Petri de Beer As the wine industry transitions into an era where older vineyards will constitute the majority of vines in our industry, it is crucial to assess their role in shaping the sector’s future. In regions such as Stellenbosch, over 50% of vineyards are already older than twenty years, with Paarl and the Swartland not far behind. This shift necessitates a deeper evaluation of the position these older vines will occupy within the industry and their impact on ensurin

Jun 1

Starting from a strong foundation, The improvements in Planting material and management: Part four of five of a serialized report on old vines in South Africa

By Petri de Beer The era of roadside vine shoot cuttings and suitcases filled with smuggled plant material is firmly in the past. In the 21st century, vineyard propagation has been fully professionalized and meticulously monitored, with exceptional care and precision applied to the cultivation of new planting material. This transformation has been a key factor in the improved health and resilience of modern South African vineyards. Now, as the first of these carefully cultiva

Jun 1

Cutting with care, Pruning of old vines: Part three of five of a serialized report on old vines in South Africa

By Petri de Beer South African vineyards have undergone significant transformation over the past few decades, with increased attention given to vine longevity and health rather than solely maximizing short-term yields. Among the most critical factors contributing to the extended lifespan of vineyards is the adoption of improved pruning techniques, which aim to minimize pruning wounds, optimize vascular flow, and reduce susceptibility to fungal infections, one of the primary t

Jun 1

The changing landscape of South Africa wine grape age distribution: Part one of five of a serialized report on old vines in South Africa

By Petri de Beer To ensure the sustainability and productivity of the wine industry, it is essential to maintain a robust core of healthy vines. However, the past decade has witnessed a significant shift in the age distribution of South African vineyards. The red wine boom of the early 2000s led to an extensive expansion and fervent planting activity within the industry, culminating in a peak of 102,146 hectares in 2006. Unfortunately, the global economic recession of 2007-2

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